Pattern of Skin Diseases at a Dermatology Center: A Retrospective Study

Factors such as location, climate, dietary habits, and socioeconomic status as well as age and gender all directly influence the development of certain skin disorders. Whilst the pattern of skin diseases has been studied in the Middle East region previously, data on the incidence of these conditions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is lacking. This retrospective study aims to identify the types and frequency of dermatological disorders encountered at a dermatology outpatient clinic in Dubai, UAE.

Electronic medical records obtained from the outpatient clinic of the Dermatology Department at Rashid Hospital, from January 1, 2021, to January 1, 2022, were retrospectively assessed. We only included new patients who visited the clinic for the first time. Patient data was analyzed based on their clinical diagnosis and were then grouped as per age, gender, and diagnosis.

A total of 5969 new patient encounters were recorded in 12 months, a majority of which were female patients, 3526 visits (n=3526, 59.1%). The frequency of visits made by male patients was 2443 (n=2443, 40.9%). The 10 most frequently encountered conditions were the following: acne (17.6%), unspecified dermatitis (9.9%), atopic dermatitis (5.5%), viral warts (4.5%), seborrheic dermatitis (4.3%), psoriasis (4.2%), dermatophytosis (3.5%), xerosis cutis (3.1%), non-scarring hair loss (2.1%), rash and other non-specific skin eruption (2.1%).

Acne was the most prevalent skin condition seen in the clinic year-round, followed by dermatitis. The pattern of skin diseases can be a good indicator for community health and in planning preventative and therapeutic strategies. Involving primary care physicians in the management of these conditions can lead to an earlier diagnosis and management, thereby improving the quality of patients' lives.